Trade and labour in uncertain times - Shaping Africa’s future in the global economy

Africa’s integration in the global economy is entering a decisive phase. Geopolitical shifts, new sustainability requirements, and changing regulatory frameworks are reshaping global value chains, creating both risks and opportunities for the continent. At the same time, the continent’s rapid demographic growth and expanding regional integration and productive capacity call for trade and investment strategies that deliver decent work, resilience and inclusive growth.

A seminar organized by the ILO Office for the EU and the Benelux countries and the Leuven Centre for Global Governance Studies, with the support of the Government of Flanders, will explore how trade and investment policies can support Africa’s long-term development objectives. Distinguished speakers will exchange views and share good practices on how African governments, institutions, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and development partners can leverage trade to advance decent work and support long-term sustainable growth.

This seminar will provide a platform to:

• Examine the impact of global trade transformations on employment, and working conditions;
• Discuss the integration and implementation of labour provisions in bilateral, EU-Africa, and continental trade agreements; and
• Explore the impact of unilateral trade-related instruments, such as due diligence requirements, import bans, and sustainability standards.

Discussions will draw on lessons learned from recent consultations in five African countries, conducted under the ILO IMPLEMENT project, which is funded by the Government of Flanders and part of a broader research programme entitled “Integrating Trade and Decent Work” (INTEGRATE), funded by the European Union and the Government of Flanders.

A networking lunch will be offered from 12.30 until 13.30.

Register here by 20 February to confirm your participation.

Programme